Home
>
Knowledge Base
>
>
≑

What are my options for Sender ID?

Your Sender ID determines what appears as the "From" name or number when a message is received on your customer’s mobile device. Choosing the right Sender ID can influence trust, engagement, and deliverability.

‍

With Cellcast, you have four Sender ID options depending on your needs β€” whether you're looking for two-way messaging, brand recognition, or consistency across campaigns.

‍

1. Shared Number (Default)

‍

A rotating mobile number shared across Cellcast users. Ideal for fast setup and general messaging.

‍

Key Features:

  • Supports two-way messaging
  • Instantly available β€” no setup needed
  • Great for testing or smaller campaigns
  • Mobile number will vary

Cost: βœ… Free

‍

Best for:
βœ… New users
βœ… One-off campaigns
βœ… Reply-required workflows

‍

Β 2. Dedicated Number

‍

A unique mobile number assigned to your account β€” exclusively yours. Enables a consistent experience across all campaigns.

‍

Key Features:

  • Supports full two-way SMS
  • Permanent mobile number
  • Keeps message threads consistent
  • Ideal for long-term brand identity

Cost: $18/month *

‍

Best for:
βœ… Support lines
βœ… Ongoing customer conversations
βœ… Brand consistency

‍

3. Business Name (Alpha ID)

‍

Also known as Alphanumeric Sender ID, this allows you to display your brand name (e.g., "Cellcast") instead of a number.

‍

Key Features:

  • Increases brand recognition
  • Maximum 11 characters (no spaces)
  • One-way only – does not support replies

Cost: Β Register Free

‍

Best for:
βœ… Promotional or broadcast campaigns
βœ… Brand building
βœ… Notifications

‍

Note: Alpha ID is supported in Australia for SMS but is not available for MMS or in every country.

‍

Β 4. Custom Number (Bring Your Own)

‍

You can request to use your existing business mobile number as your Sender ID (subject to carrier approval).

‍

Key Features:

  • Maintain your current business number
  • Brand consistency across SMS and calls
  • Requires verification and provisioning

Cost: register Free
Carrier approval may take up to 5 business days.

‍

Best for:
βœ… Businesses already using a single mobile contact
βœ… Local brand presence

Summary Table

‍

Feature Shared Number Dedicated Number Business Name (Alpha ID) Custom Number
Supports Replies βœ… Yes βœ… Yes ❌ No βœ… Yes
Shows a Brand Name ❌ No ❌ No βœ… Yes ❌ No
Consistent Display ❌ No βœ… Yes βœ… Yes βœ… Yes
Setup Time Instant 1–2 days Instant 3–5 days
Cost Free $18/month* Free Free

‍

Which Sender ID Should I Use?
  • Want replies? β†’ Choose Shared or Dedicated Number
  • Want branding? β†’ Use Alpha ID or Custom Number
  • Want long-term customer conversations? β†’ Go with a Dedicated Number
  • Already using a business mobile? β†’ Consider Custom Number

Still unsure? Our support team is happy to guide you through the best fit for your use case.

‍

πŸ’¬ Need Help?

πŸ“© support@cellcast.com
☎️ Call Us
πŸ’¬ Live Chat via your Cellcast dashboard

‍